Interview: Nikki Kavanagh – ‘I was always hoping to return!’

This weekend it’s finally time for Eurosong, where the Irish people will select the song that will represent Ireland in Eurovision Song Contest 2015 in Vienna in May. We had the honour of chatting with one of the finalists, and the current bookies’ favourite, Nikki Kavanagh, about her entry, her performance and a lot more!

For those of our readers who don’t know you, can you tell us a bit about yourself?

Well I’m a singer/make up artist, I own my own bridal shop in Meath, I’m well known in Ireland for all things wedding related, I have four kids and I love Eurovision!

This is the second time you have participated in Eurosong, after coming 2nd to Jedward in 2011. What made you want to return to try again?

I was always hoping to return I just had to find the right song!

How did you find out you were selected as a finalist? Who was the first person you told?

I got the call from RTE at Christmas time and my family were sitting beside me at the time!!

Can you tell us a bit about your song?

My song is called ‘Memories’ and it was written by a team of writers from all over! Lee Anna James is in LA, Elena Morosanu is in Romania, and then the rest of us, Johnny Sanchez, Dimitri Stassos, Simon Gribbe and myself are on this side of Europe. It’s a love song albeit a bit bitter! It’s about how music can spark memories that might be hurtful or painful which I think everyone can relate to. I came on board and made a few tweaks to give some hope at the end! I love the song and I’m very lucky to be working with such talented writers.

How have you been preparing for the live show?

Not very well! I’ve been so sick with colds and flu symptoms that I haven’t started yet so I need to get myself in gear today! Starting with a juice detox and daily vocal warm ups!

Can you give us some ideas about your stage performance?

The song is so powerful and I will be focusing on singing with my heart and soul! I didn’t want the distraction of any dancers etc. You are very restricted in the RTE studios with space and props, I can’t have my dry ice or wind machine so I suppose I’ll have to wait and see what they can do for me at rehearsals on Thursday! I’ll have my band and singers and who are amazing!

There has been a little controversy about the fact that a Swedish singer with a Swedish song is trying to represent Ireland. What do you say to people who believe that only Irish singers should represent Ireland?

I’ve heard mixed reviews about this myself and honestly for me I’m sure I could enter the Swedish one of I wanted so once the rules say it’s ok, then it’s ok! Each to their own and best of luck to her as she’s such a sweetheart.

If you win Eurosong, what is the first thing you will do?

I will start working on the best staging and performance imaginable! If I am lucky enough to get to do it, I’ll be doing it right!

What would it mean to you to represent Ireland in the Eurovision Song Contest?

Literally a dream come true! It’s so exciting to even beconsidered as a national finalist, and I feel very lucky.

Finally, do you have a message for the readers of ESC Bubble?

Thanks for taking the time to read my interview and if you like the song and think it’s for Vienna then please share and spread the word! xxx

Thanks once again to Nikki for taking the time to speak to us, and we wish her the best of luck on Friday evening!